Usted

The song 'Usted' by Los Tres Diamantes is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil it brings. The lyrics convey a deep sense of anguish and longing, as the narrator holds the object of their affection responsible for their emotional distress. The repeated use of 'usted,' a formal and respectful form of 'you' in Spanish, underscores the distance and reverence the narrator feels towards their beloved, highlighting the unattainable nature of their love.

The song is rich with metaphors that illustrate the intensity of the narrator's feelings. Describing their love as a 'grito' (a scream) that they carry in their blood and heart, the narrator emphasizes the visceral and all-consuming nature of their passion. This metaphor suggests that their love is not just an emotional experience but a physical one, deeply embedded in their very being. The narrator also refers to themselves as a 'slave' to their beloved's eyes and a 'toy' of their love, indicating a sense of powerlessness and subjugation in the face of their unreciprocated feelings.

Culturally, the song reflects the traditional Latin American bolero style, known for its romantic and often melancholic themes. Los Tres Diamantes, a renowned Mexican trio, are masters of this genre, and their performance of 'Usted' captures the essence of longing and despair that is characteristic of bolero music. The plea for the beloved to not 'play with my sorrows or my feelings' reveals a vulnerability and a desperate hope that their love might one day be returned. The song's emotional depth and lyrical beauty make it a timeless piece that resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of unrequited love.